The Pittsburgh Steelers are currently facing an intriguing situation with their quarterbacks as their first preseason game approaches. With veteran Russell Wilson, who was signed as a free agent earlier this offseason, resting due to a calf injury, Justin Fields, another recent acquisition through a trade, has been taking reps with the starting lineup. This scenario is shaping up to be a genuine competition for the starting quarterback position.
In a recent interview on The Dan Patrick Show, former NFL player and ESPN analyst Louis Riddick shared his thoughts on who might start in Week 1 for the Steelers. Riddick mentioned that based on his conversations, if Fields continues to progress as he has in practice, he is likely to be named the opening day starter. This would be a surprising and bold move by Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin if it comes to pass.
Initially, it was assumed that after Pittsburgh brought in both Wilson and Fields, the plan was for Fields, who struggled during his first few years in Chicago with 41 total turnovers, to spend some time developing behind the experienced Wilson. However, with Wilson sidelined for the moment, Fields seems to be quietly gaining the upper hand in the competition.
Fields, a former All-American from Ohio State, is a talented quarterback and has been showing significant improvement under the guidance of Tomlin and offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. Whether he can progress enough to secure the starting role by Week 1, as Riddick predicts, remains to be seen.